Romesh Ranganathan reports feeling better than ever before, after a long struggle with mental health challenges.
In a recent interview on BBC Radio 4’s Desert Island Discs, the comedian attributed his improved well-being to the incorporation of running, reading, and breathing exercises into his routine, following past experiences of suicidal ideation.
“Recognizing the problem is the crucial first step,” he shared with host Lauren Laverne. “Sometimes, I go through difficult periods, but I know I need to take action.”
Ranganathan also acknowledged the complexities of publicly discussing his mental health journey, stating: “It’s essential to be cautious, as it can be triggering for others.”
He explained his approach: “My goal is to normalize these feelings, not to say they’re typical, but to destigmatize them and encourage open conversation. We openly discuss physical illnesses; ideally, mental health should be addressed with the same openness and honesty. However, sensitivity towards others’ experiences is vital.”
“Sharing my experiences of suicidal thoughts requires consideration for those who have lost loved ones or endured similar struggles. It’s not always easy to get the balance right, but I believe the positive impact outweighs the risks.
The 47-year-old emphasized the importance of prioritizing self-care activities known to improve his well-being.
“A common pitfall is neglecting practices that demonstrably work,” he noted. “You might discover that reflection, running, reading, or breathing exercises improve your mood, but then inexplicably stop. You might feel great after a week of this, then just stop. Weeks later, you wonder why you’re feeling worse,” he chuckled.
During his Desert Island Discs appearance, airing Sunday, the comedian selected music from artists including Kanye West, Eminem, and Huey Lewis and the News. The Radio 2 presenter also shared details about his family’s immigration from Sri Lanka in 1970, eight years before his birth.
Ranganathan described his father as “a whirlwind,” embracing British life wholeheartedly after immigrating. “Looking back, he could have set more boundaries,” Ranganathan reflected with a laugh. “He was the life of the party.”
He expressed regret for not fully understanding his mother’s challenges as a 19-year-old immigrant raising children in a foreign country. “My mother is one of my heroes,” he stated.
Ranganathan recalled a difficult period during his teenage years, marked by his father’s imprisonment for fraud and subsequent financial difficulties. His father passed away in 2011.
He openly discussed past experiences with suicidal thoughts, but emphasized his current positive mental state: “Right now, I’m experiencing one of the best periods of my life mentally.”
Desert Island Discs airs on BBC Sounds and Radio 4 at 10:00 BST on Sunday.
Micky Hazard’s Legend on the Bench charity aims to help those having mental health crises.
Leigh Edwards says he is determined to raise money and awareness to support men’s mental health.
The Hull Boy, 17, is the youngest person to run from Land’s End to John O’Groats.
The event in Upnor aims to raise funds for Kent-based charities, including North Kent Mind.
The family of Neil Stewart, who took his own life last summer, want to prevent further tragedies.